Gaping Gill Cave System Yorkshire Dales

Gaping Gill is a massive natural shaft in the Yorkshire Dales, plunging 340 feet into Britain’s largest underground chamber. The main cavern could hold York Minster cathedral. Twice yearly — during Bradford Pothole Club meets in May and Craven Pothole Club meets in August — they rig a winch system allowing public descents into the cave. On the surface, Fell Beck disappears into the pothole, creating a dramatic waterfall into the void.

Located on Ingleborough’s limestone plateau, accessed via a rough farm track from Clapham village. The track requires high-clearance vehicles and can be muddy after rain. Parking is extremely limited near the cave entrance. Outside winch weekends, it’s just a gaping hole in the ground — impressive but dangerous to approach closely.

Britain's largest underground chamber with 340-foot drop